Assessing the state of Pahang librarian perspectives and user satisfaction on digital technology sustainability in the rural public library

This study examines the sustainability of digital technology implementation in rural public libraries (RPLs) in Pahang, Malaysia. By integrating librarian perspective with user satisfaction analysis. Despite national intiatives such as Perpustakaan Desa and MYDIGITAL Blueprint aimed at enhancing information access in rural communities, persistent challenges remain, including infrastructual limitations, insufficient funding, low public awareness and concerns regarding long-term viability. Employing an exploratory sequential mixed-methods design, the study began with semi-structured interviews with librarians to identify key development of a questionnaire, adapted from established measurement models and validated by the National Library of Malaysia (PNM), which was subsequently administered to 2,660 RPLusers. Quantitative analysis using Partial Least Squares Structual Equation Modelling (PLS- SEM) revealed that technology awareness and usage significantly influence digital sustainability outcomes, with user satisfaction functioning as a mediating variable. The results underscore the necessity of aligning institutional strategies with user needs to enhance service effectiveness and sustainability. This study contributes a holistic conceptual framework for evaluating digital technology sustainability with rural library contexts and offers evidence-based recommendations to support the implementation of Malaysia’s national digital transformation initiatives.